#4 modern kitchen design ideas - Building - Renovation, Lifestyle

The demand for modern architecture, contemporary interior spaces and an overall minimalist approach to every area of the home has increased dramatically.

Homeowners need to consider cabinetry carefully as it should cater for all the kitchen’s functional requirements.

This is according to Philip Richards from blu-line. who says homeowners nowadays want spaces that are clean-lined, timeless and functional. He says however, this doesn’t mean “emotionless” designs, homeowners can get new textures to add character to their spaces.

When it comes to modern designs the focus is also on neutral colours as they are timeless and offer a warm, calm atmosphere.

Richards shares tips on how to bring a modern kitchen together.

1. Design essentials

Modern kitchen must-haves are specifically related to the design and performance of the kitchen. Homeowners need to consider cabinetry carefully as it should cater for all the kitchen’s functional requirements. They should think about the ergonomics, which are all about flow, and they should aim for uncluttered, clean lines. Richards says they should also remember that less is more, always.

The modern kitchen is a collaboration of various zones, so due to its open-plan nature, all the spaces need to work in harmony.

When working on your modern kitchen, strive for timelessness but don’t lapse into boredom, he says and above all, ensure that the space is relational as it should be pleasing for all who will be using it.

2. The open-plan kitchen

Richards says the kitchen now successfully interacts with the dining and living spaces, and has actually become the foundation from which these other areas flow.

He says in terms of aesthetics, the kitchen needs to offer a defining palette from which the other areas will glean. In terms of functionality, it offers the living and dining room much needed storage.

Seeing the kitchen as part of the living space is not only sensible but also relational. Richards says the most successful designs are those that integrate seamlessly into the kitchen, achieving a workflow that enhances every user experience.

The kitchen island offers a relational element in that it allows others to be involved in the process of preparation and cooking.

The modern kitchen is a collaboration of various zones, so due to its open-plan nature, all the spaces need to work in harmony.

3. The role of the island

The island has become an anchor for any modern kitchen, says Richards. The reason is that open-plan living requires that there be elements within various spaces that ensure the individual areas still have a standalone feel without detracting from the overall open layout.

The kitchen islands can offer this as it incorporates various functional zones from cooking to prep and seating arrangements.

The kitchen island serves three major purposes, it offers a relational element in that it allows others to be involved in the process of preparation and cooking. It also not only works well as a work surface but it can be used as a feature and therefore can make a kitchen aesthetically appealing.

4. Décor in the kitchen

The key is having just a few pieces of décor that evoke certain emotions and create interest within a modern framework.

Richards says he believes in the principle that ‘less is more’. Decorating a modern kitchen needs to be approached with thought and patience, because it’s not about how much décor can be placed in the space but rather the right décor in the right colour and right position to make the area personal.

Each décor piece should add character, whether it be a piece of art, antique item or modern vase. The key is having just a few pieces of décor that evoke certain emotions and create interest within a modern framework.

In terms of decorating items, the nook stool is always popular and is an important part of the kitchen’s look and feel. Feature lighting in the form of modern pendants or chandeliers also remain popular, along with modern or textured vases.

The reality is that the modern kitchen is becoming sleeker and cleaner, and therefore most of the features come from the cabinetry and the design of the space. The trend is leaning towards few and minimal accessories to ensure the space remains uncluttered and streamlined.